Although it’s still technically summer, winter will be here before you know it. To keep your vehicle running in perfect order, there are a few things you should do to get it prepared for the winter months ahead. Every vehicle should undergo a variety of quick check-ups and maintenance in order to ensure that it lasts throughout the winter with little to no hiccups. Read on to learn about a few easy things you can do for simple vehicle prep.
Easy Maintenance Tips
When the temperature dips, it can affect your vehicle, so make sure you get it maintained before Old Man Winter gets here. First, pop the hood of your car and check all of the fluid levels. This includes fluid for your windshield wipers, the oil, and even coolant. As the weather cools, the oil in your engine can become thicker, making it more difficult to lubricate all of the moving parts. Consider switching your current oil to a higher-viscosity oil when the weather gets cold to protect your engine. Windshield wiper fluid should be topped off just to help you keep the windshield clear in case of hail, sleet, or snow. While your hood is open, go ahead and take a closer look at the hoses, your battery, and any filters just to make sure everything looks OK.
Don’t Forget the Tires
The air pressure in your tires will decrease when the temperatures fall. This means your tires can lose quite a lot of pressure for every 10 degrees the temps drop. If the pressure in your tires gets too low, it can be dangerous. Underinflated tires could suffer a blowout, and they can definitely affect handling. On icy or wet roads, this can be a serious threat to your safety. Check your tires regularly, especially during the winter months. Make sure each tire is inflated to the correct PSI level as indicated on the interior driver side door panel.
Other Winter Considerations
It gets darker earlier during the winter, so make sure the lenses on your headlights are clean and check for any burned out bulbs. Make sure the wipers are in great condition and if not, replace them with new ones. Make an emergency roadside kit in case you happen to get stranded during a snowstorm. Your kit should include things like extra blankets, an extra pair of gloves, a shovel, and some hand warmers. Include a container of kitty litter to give you traction on slippery roads, driveways, and even parking spaces.
At East Coast Euroworks, we specialize in service and repair for all makes and models of European vehicles. Come visit us at our Wilmington, NC location or give us a call to schedule your appointment today!